I am going to take a side trip to Paris for a couple of days after the Food Safety Conference here in London and the news that French supermarket giant Carrefour has been accused of violating a number of regulations related to the labeling and food safety of meat products caught my eye. Carrefour has been charged with providing the incorrect country of origin, putting less meat in packages than stated on the labels, storing frozen products at temperatures that were too high and selling products after their sell by date.

According to a spokesperson for the supermarket chain, “the health of its customers was not in danger at any time."

"At this time?" The French government demands a penalty of EUR220.000 for all violations combined. A ruling in the case is expected soon. Interesting thought, same facts, but in the USA? Violation? Fine?